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Rick Viehman shares memorable Christmas magic

 

TRYON—For over 14 years, Rick Viehman has donned the iconic red suit, spreading holiday cheer throughout the Tryon community. Widely known for embodying the spirit of Santa Claus, Viehman brightens the days of children and adults at various local events, turning ordinary gatherings into unforgettable celebrations.

Viehman’s journey as Santa began at the annual Tryon Stroll, where he debuted in a simple Santa suit. Since then, he has become a beloved figure in the area, largely due to the support of his wife, Ann Foster Viehman, who owns Foster’s Garden Center in Spartanburg. 

Over the years, Viehman has encountered numerous touching moments while portraying Santa. One unforgettable experience occurred during the Tryon Stroll when a young boy approached him with an extraordinary Christmas wish. The boy, expressing his desire for “Peace on earth” rather than toys, left Viehman speechless. “It was by far the least selfish request I have ever heard,” he reflected. 

Viehman’s favorite part of being Santa is the joy he feels when interacting with children. He says “It brings so much joy to see things through the eyes of a child.” 

One of the most poignant experiences Viehman recalls took place on Christmas Eve. His visit was to a little girl who had recently lost her grandfather. “There wasn’t a dry eye in the house,” he said, remembering the overwhelming emotions of that evening.

The most recent Christmas Eve visit in 2024 was to a special woman named Jessica, whose spirit endears her to all. This being their second meeting, he could see how much she appreciated the two simple gifts he brought. A video of their visit was shared on social media, showcasing Jessica’s pure joy and excitement. “Towards the end, she asked me repeatedly if I was coming back that night, and I reassured her that Santa will return,” Viehman said. “Those requests were gifts to them, but especially to me.”

Children often inquire about Santa’s reindeer, and Viehman has a whimsical explanation ready. He tells them he leaves the reindeer at a nearby horse farm, where they can rest and enjoy carrots, hay, and water. He also captivates their imaginations with tales of his magical ability to slow down time on Christmas Eve so he can deliver all the presents in just one night.

Viehman emphasizes that being Santa is much more than just wearing the suit. “It’s about reminding a child that Santa is a simple toy maker,” he explains. He acknowledges the reality of life, “Santa’s magic can’t bring back a loved one or fix any adult problems,” reminding children of the importance of cherishing their loved ones.

In addition to his local endeavors, Viehman recently made an appearance in a holiday movie titled “Christmas in Mistletoe,” which is set to be released next year. As the holiday season ends, Viehman remains committed to his role as Santa, ready to spread warmth, joy, and a bit of magic to the local community once again.